Review: Ra Ra Riot at 9:30 Club

Ra Ra Riot is currently opening for Young The Giant on their Home Of The Strange tour and I was lucky enough to see night one of three sold out performances at 9:30 Club. The band has been making music together for over a decade now and their onstage chemistry is a testament to the close relationship they’ve built with one another over the years.

The combination of Wes Miles’ unique vocals and the presence of a violin and cello (what are those!?) seemed to initially confuse some of the growing crowd assembling before them. But by the time the band broke into “Suckers,” a track off of the band’s latest release, the confusion melted away and dancing ensued. The band’s luscious harmonies and synth-driven tracks were irresistible and the unassuming, charming vibe radiating from stage was infectious. At one point, Miles told the crowd that this was the band’s 8th time playing the 9:30 Club and that he hoped the band would be back at least 80 more times because “this is the best venue in the world.”

Highlights of the set included the flawless harmonizing on songs like “Dance With Me,” “Absolutely,” and “Water” and the display of Rebecca Zeller’s violin skills during “Beta Love.” Many of the songs also provided ample opportunity for clapping and though the audience was collectively offbeat, the vibes were on.